Research Success with a Patent for Innovative Measurement Technology

"We have increased our third-party funding and publications through the acquisition of numerous research projects, thanks to the great commitment of our staff and our extensive national and international research network," explains Prof. Dr. Martin Sauter, head of the institute. One particular highlight is the patent application for an innovative SIP measurement cell, which determines the complex electrical properties of rocks with significantly improved result quality. SIP measurements are crucial for determining rock properties and are therefore essential for groundwater exploration and environmental pollution characterization.

Research with Societal Relevance

According to the report, LIAG's research focuses on "Groundwater Systems," "Geohazards," and "Geo-Reservoirs as Energy Sources and Storage Solutions" (geothermal energy and hydrogen). These priorities highlight the societal relevance of geophysical work—for example, ensuring sustainable water supply through early warning systems for salinization issues, investigating the activity of faults with earthquake potential, utilizing the subsurface for heat production and storage, and exploring natural hydrogen resources as well as hydrogen storage in deep sandstone formations. Geophysical data form the essential, data-driven foundation for understanding and sustainably utilizing the subsurface.

LIAG’s Toolbox: Strength in Methodological Combination with Modern Technology

For the first time, the report provides a comprehensive overview of the geophysical methods—the institute’s "toolbox." It highlights LIAG’s strength in combining various geophysical techniques—from borehole and electromagnetic methods to drone-based measurements and mathematical process modeling. This integrated approach enables a holistic understanding of the subsurface, beyond isolated point measurements.

One major highlight in 2024 was the modernization of the renowned geochronology laboratory. The LIAG laboratory is one of the few worldwide that combines luminescence and electron spin resonance dating, enabling high-precision age determination of quartz and feldspar. This is crucial, for example, for assessing fault zone activity and the related earthquake potential. Additionally, LIAG has made targeted investments in cutting-edge technology, including:

• A CT-capable large triaxial press for studying geomechanical processes

• A superconducting gravimeter for high-precision gravity field measurements

• A drone equipped with ground-penetrating radar for large-scale, high-resolution subsurface exploration

"The quantitative data provided by applied geophysics, which help identify processes and improve understanding of subsurface structures and properties, are essential for forecasting groundwater flow, heat and substance transport, or deformation processes," explains Professor Martin Sauter. "Our goal remains to make the invisible visible — and 2024 has proven that we are living up to this claim."

International Networking and Forward-Looking Projects

LIAG combines its expertise in applied geophysics with a strong national and international network of universities, research institutions, government geological services, federal ministries, and industry partners. Some pioneering ongoing projects include:

• BlueTransition: EU Interreg project developing solution strategies for climate change adaptation in the North Sea region

• DESMEX-REAL: Advancement of semi-airborne electromagnetics and application in the first real-world laboratory for raw material exploration in the western Harz region

• WärmeGut: National research project supporting the energy transition through geothermal energy

• HOPE: Characterization of tectonic faults with earthquake potential

• HyAfrica: Exploration of natural hydrogen in several African countries

• SWAIS2C: Geological drilling mission in West Antarctica to predict future sea-level rise

With these initiatives, the institute once again demonstrates its innovative strength and solidifies its role as a competent and reliable partner in national and international research collaborations.

Growth in Personnel and Strong Administration

In addition to scientific growth, LIAG also expanded its workforce: 27 new positions were filled, including five permanent positions to strengthen research areas in the long term. The research-supporting internal administration was also successfully expanded and contributes significantly to research success through efficient organization and modern infrastructure.

Download

The research report is available for download on the LIAG website: https://www.leibniz-liag.de/forschungsberichte-des-liag. (German, in translation)